John Nicholas and Elizabeth Moyer House facts for kids
The John Nicholas and Elizabeth Moyer House, also called "Richland," is a historic home in Jefferson Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania. It was built around 1817. This house is a two-and-a-half-story stone building. It has a special design with four rooms on each of its two main floors. A stone summer kitchen was added to the back of the house between 1818 and 1820. Later, in 1998, some wooden additions were built.
This important house was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
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About the Moyer House
The John Nicholas and Elizabeth Moyer House was built around 1817. It is located in what is now Jefferson Township in Berks County, Pennsylvania. This house is a two-and-a-half-story building made of stone. It has a special layout with four rooms on each of its two main floors.
Architectural Style
The house shows off different styles of architecture. It combines features from the Georgian and Federal styles. It also has touches of Pennsylvania German Vernacular design. This means it uses building traditions common among German settlers in Pennsylvania.
The Summer Kitchen
A stone summer kitchen was added to the back of the house. This happened between 1818 and 1820. Summer kitchens were common in older homes. They were used for cooking during hot weather. This helped keep the main house cooler.
Later Changes
In 1998, some new parts were added to the house. These additions were made of wood. They helped to expand the living space.
Becoming a Historic Place
The John Nicholas and Elizabeth Moyer House is recognized as a special historic site. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is a list kept by the United States government. It includes buildings, sites, and objects that are important in American history. When a place is on this list, it means it is worth protecting. It helps people learn about the past.
How the House Was Listed
Experts from Pennsylvania's Historic Preservation Board looked at the house. They reviewed its history and design. This review happened on March 13, 2001. After their meeting, they decided the house was important enough. The John Nicholas and Elizabeth Moyer House was then officially added to the National Register later that year.